BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both excellent motorcycles, but they have some key differences.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the S 1000 XR has an inline four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc, producing 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The S 1000 XR has a higher power output, making it more suitable for sport touring, while the R 1250 GS Adventure offers a high-torque engine that excels in low revs and is better suited for off-road adventures.

In terms of suspension, the S 1000 XR features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is electronically adjustable and offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound. Both motorcycles offer a comfortable ride, but the R 1250 GS Adventure has a longer travel and is better equipped for off-road riding.

In terms of chassis, the S 1000 XR has an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design that is load-bearing for the engine. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a steel frame that is also load-bearing for the engine. Both frames provide good stability and handling, but the aluminum frame of the S 1000 XR is lighter, contributing to its overall lower weight.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. However, the S 1000 XR has larger diameter disks (320mm) compared to the R 1250 GS Adventure (305mm). Both motorcycles use radial brake technology, providing excellent stopping power and control.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The S 1000 XR comes with suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The R 1250 GS Adventure offers ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. Both motorcycles provide a high level of safety and control, with the R 1250 GS Adventure offering additional features such as hill start assist and anti-slipping control for off-road riding.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the S 1000 XR has a wheelbase of 1552mm and a seat height of 840mm. It weighs 226kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1504mm but a higher seat height of 890mm. It weighs 268kg (with ABS) and has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters, providing a longer range for adventurous rides.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with a range of features. The S 1000 XR offers LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The R 1250 GS Adventure adds cornering lights, a heated seat, and a larger windscreen to its equipment list. Both motorcycles provide good visibility and comfort for long rides.

In terms of strengths, the S 1000 XR excels in its connectivity features, engine performance, balanced handling, and braking. It also offers good wind and weather protection. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure stands out with its high-torque engine, low center of gravity, practical details for frequent riders, and a large fuel tank capacity for long-range adventures. It also offers great ride comfort and a confident feeling in the saddle.

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The S 1000 XR has a narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for taller riders. It also has suspension damping that is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to find a truly comfortable setup. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a high weight, which can affect maneuverability, especially at low speeds. It also has somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs and a jagged appearance with little elegance. Additionally, it is higher priced when fully equipped.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The S 1000 XR is a sport touring motorcycle with a powerful engine and excellent handling, while the R 1250 GS Adventure is an enduro motorcycle that excels in off-road adventures and offers a comfortable ride. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.